When you place a loved one in a nursing home, you trust that they will receive the care, respect, and attention they deserve. Unfortunately, nursing home neglect is a serious issue that affects countless elderly individuals across the country. If you suspect that a family member has suffered from neglect in a nursing home, Simeone & Miller, LLP is here to help. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent nursing facilities accountable and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
What Is Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing home neglect occurs when a facility fails to provide adequate care, leading to harm or deterioration in a resident’s physical or mental health. Unlike abuse, which involves intentional harm, neglect often stems from understaffing, inadequate training, or a lack of resources. However, the consequences of neglect can be just as severe, leading to serious injuries, illnesses, or even wrongful death.
Common types of nursing home neglect include:
- Medical Neglect: Failing to provide proper medical care, including necessary medications, wound care, or treatment for infections.
- Hygiene Neglect: Ignoring a resident’s personal hygiene needs, such as bathing, dental care, or clean clothing.
- Nutritional Neglect: Failing to provide proper meals and hydration, leading to malnutrition or dehydration.
- Emotional Neglect: Ignoring residents or leaving them isolated, leading to depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.
- Neglect of Basic Needs: Failing to maintain a clean, safe, and livable environment for residents.
Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
It can be difficult to detect neglect, as many elderly individuals may be unable or unwilling to communicate their suffering. However, some warning signs include:
- Unexplained weight loss or dehydration
- Poor personal hygiene or soiled clothing
- Untreated infections or bedsores
- Bruises, cuts, or other signs of falls or injuries
- Emotional withdrawal, depression, or sudden changes in behavior
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Frequent illnesses or worsening medical conditions
If you notice any of these red flags, it’s crucial to take action immediately to protect your loved one from further harm.
Who Is Liable for Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing homes and their staff have a legal duty to provide their residents with a certain standard of care. They may be held accountable for neglect when they fail in this duty. Liable parties may include:
- The nursing home facility itself, for failing to properly train staff or maintain adequate staffing levels.
- Doctors or medical personnel, if they failed to diagnose or treat a condition properly.
- Caregivers or staff members, if they directly neglected or mistreated a resident.
- Third-party contractors, such as those responsible for facility maintenance or food services.
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we conduct thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case for our clients.
How to Pursue a Nursing Home Neglect Claim
If you suspect nursing home neglect, take the following steps to protect your loved one and preserve your legal rights:
- Document the neglect: Take photos, write down observations, and gather medical records.
- Report the neglect: Notify the nursing home administration and file a complaint with local regulatory agencies.
- Seek medical care: Ensure your loved one receives proper medical attention for any injuries or illnesses.
- Consult an attorney: An experienced nursing home neglect lawyer can assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
A successful claim can help recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death, if neglect led to a fatality
How Simeone & Miller, LLP Can Help
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we are committed to protecting the rights of nursing home residents and their families. We understand the devastating impact of nursing home neglect and will fight aggressively to hold negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling elder abuse and neglect cases, and we work tirelessly to secure the compensation and justice your loved one deserves.
If you suspect nursing home neglect, don’t wait to take action. Contact Simeone & Miller, LLP today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your loved one and ensure that negligent nursing homes are held responsible for their actions.
Simeone & Miller, LLP is based in Washington, D.C., and also provides legal services across Maryland and Virginia. In Maryland, our services extend to Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County. In Virginia, we serve clients in Arlington County, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.
